WWF Concerned Over MSC Credibility After Controversial Certifications

The World Wildlife Foundation for Nature (WWF) has raised concerns over the Marine Stewardship Council’s (MSC) credibility after multiple controversial certifications. At a special hearing on 31 July, WWF plans to fight against the MSC’s proposition to certify the Echebastar Indian Ocean tuna fishery. The WWF does not believe the Echebastar Indian Ocean purse seine skipjack, yellowfin, and bigeye tuna fisheries can be certified to MSC standards. Further, the WWF Foundation commented that the regional fishery management organization in the area - the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) – has failed to put any formal controls or limits on the exploitation of the stocks. The IOTC has even claimed that any decrease in their fish stocks in the last few years is likely due to piracy, not their own lack of regulations or controls. The WWF does not feel that a fishery managed by piracy deserves to be awarded MSC recognition.